Gorilla Trekking Africa 2025 – Rwanda, Uganda Gorilla Tour
Gorilla Trekking Africa is one of the top-ranking wildlife adventures that offers visitors the unique opportunity to catch glimpses of mountain gorillas in their natural habitats.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience takes place in the Virunga mountain region of central Africa, which spans the borders of Rwanda – the Volcanoes National Park, Uganda – Mgahinga National Park, and Congo – Virunga National Park. Together with Bwindi impenetrable national park in Uganda, situated over 45 Kilometers away from the Virunga.
Today, the mountain gorilla population has risen to over 1000 gorilla species with newborn gorillas introduced to gorilla families each year as witnessed in the “Kwita Izina” the Rwanda gorilla naming ceremony.
It is thanks to gorilla tourism, which has spread the world through the whole world of awareness, and the need to protect and conserve the remaining gorilla population from extinction.
Mountain gorillas are listed among the world’s most endangered species, due to several factors that were forcing the mountain gorilla population to extinction, like uncontrolled diseases, poaching, habitat encroachment, and civil wars among others, which have largely been controlled and cubed down by government organizations in charge.
To visit gorillas in Africa, one has to first obtain a gorilla permit. Each gorilla destination has a set price for gorilla trekking.
Below are the current prices for gorilla permits in Rwanda, Uganda Congo;
Rwanda – $ 1,500
Uganda – $800
Congo – $500
Bwindi’s impenetrable forest has the highest mountain gorilla population with over 550 individuals, with 12 habituated gorilla groups available for visitors. With other 2 groups are available for the gorilla habituation experience open for visitors.
Bwindi gorilla forest offers travelers a real jungle adventure for their gorilla trekking experience. The forest is situated 8 – 10 hours drive away from Kampala city center and just 4 hours drive crossing from Rwanda into Uganda to Bwindi.
Volcanoes National Park has the highest gorilla numbers in the Virunga conservation region, with over 400 individual gorilla species, and 10 habituated gorilla groups.
The park is situated just 2 hours drive from the Kigali city center and Kigali international airport.
Virunga National Park has 6 habituated gorilla families ready to be visited and is easily accessed by crossing into Uganda through Kasese into Congo. Gorilla trekking in Virunga is very safe and quite memorable.
Top Gorilla Trekking Packages
- 3-Day Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi: A quick adventure to encounter mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences.
- 4-Day Rwanda Gorillas and Chimp Tour: Explore Volcanoes National Park, trek to see gorillas and Chimpanzees, and enjoy Rwanda’s scenic landscapes and cultural heritage.
- 5-Day Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari: Combine gorilla trekking in Bwindi with a thrilling wildlife experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park, featuring game drives and boat safaris.
- 7-Day Rwanda Primate Safari: Encounter gorillas, golden monkeys, and chimpanzees in Rwanda’s top national parks, with cultural excursions and scenic views.
- 10-Day Uganda Gorilla and Adventure Safari: A comprehensive tour covering gorilla trekking, game viewing, and adventure activities like boat cruises and nature walks across Uganda’s top destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla Trekking in Africa
1. Where is the best place for gorilla trekking in Africa?
The best places for gorilla trekking are Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park are top choices.
2. How much does gorilla trekking cost in Africa?
Gorilla trekking permit prices vary by country:
- Uganda: $700 per person.
- Rwanda: $1,500 per person.
- DRC: $400 per person.
3. When is the best time to go gorilla trekking in Africa?
The dry seasons from June to September and December to February are the best times, offering easier trekking conditions with less rainfall.
4. How long does gorilla trekking take?
Treks can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla families. Visitors get one hour to observe them once found.
5. Is gorilla trekking safe?
Yes, gorilla trekking is safe. Expert guides and armed rangers accompany all treks to ensure tourist safety and protection from wild animals.
6. What are the rules for gorilla trekking?
Key rules include:
- Keep a 7-meter distance from gorillas.
- Do not use flash photography.
- Stay in a group and follow the guide’s instructions.
- No trekking when sick.
7. What fitness level is required for gorilla trekking?
A moderate to high level of fitness is recommended, as trekking involves steep, uneven terrain, dense vegetation, and varying altitudes.
8. What should I wear for gorilla trekking?
Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, waterproof hiking boots, a rain jacket, a hat, and gloves to protect against thorns and insects.
9. Can I take photos during gorilla trekking?
Yes, but flash photography is strictly prohibited to avoid startling the gorillas.
10. What age is allowed for gorilla trekking?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, as younger children may struggle with the trek and pose a risk to the gorillas.
11. How can I book a gorilla trekking permit?
Permits can be booked through national authorities such as the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Rwanda Development Board (RDB), or trusted tour operators.
12. What happens if I don’t see gorillas?
The likelihood of seeing gorillas is high (over 95%). In rare cases, some parks may offer a second chance trek, but refunds are generally not provided.
13. Are porters available for gorilla trekking?
Yes, porters are available at an additional fee to carry your belongings and assist with difficult terrain.
14. What other activities can I combine with gorilla trekking?
Popular add-ons include wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, cultural tours, and boat safaris in destinations like Queen Elizabeth National Park or Akagera National Park.
15. How does gorilla trekking support conservation?
Revenue from permits supports conservation efforts, anti-poaching activities, and local community projects, ensuring the survival of mountain gorillas.